Dominate Your MLB DFS Lineup On May 8th: Sleeper Picks & Avoid

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

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Top Pitcher Picks for May 8th MLB DFS

Choosing the right pitchers is crucial for a successful MLB DFS lineup. Let's analyze the matchups and identify both high-ceiling and value options.

Analyzing Pitcher Matchups

Understanding the opposing team's batting order and recent performance is paramount. Look for pitchers facing teams with weak offensive statistics, particularly those with a low team batting average, on-base percentage (OBP), and slugging percentage (SLG). A pitcher's recent performance against similar lineups can also be a valuable indicator.

• Example: A pitcher with a strong history against right-handed batters facing a team with a predominantly right-handed lineup is a strong candidate.
• Stats to Consider: ERA (Earned Run Average), WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Inning Pitched), K/9 (Strikeouts per nine innings). A lower ERA and WHIP, combined with a high K/9, suggests a pitcher with strong potential for a high DFS score.
• Potential for High Strikeout Totals: Look for pitchers known for their strikeout ability, even if their ERA might be slightly higher. Strikeouts are valuable in DFS, often leading to bonus points.

Identifying Value Pitchers

Don't always focus on the highest-priced pitchers. Sometimes, value pitchers with favorable matchups offer the best bang for your buck. Saving salary allows you to upgrade other positions in your lineup.

• Example: A pitcher with a slightly higher ERA but facing a weak offensive team might be undervalued, offering significant salary savings.
• Reasons for Value: Consider pitchers with recent strong performances, even if they haven't consistently performed at a high level throughout the season. Low projected ownership can also make them attractive.
• Salary Savings Strategy: Use the salary saved from selecting a value pitcher to target higher-priced hitters with strong potential. This can lead to a more balanced and higher-scoring DFS lineup.

Uncovering May 8th MLB DFS Sleeper Hitters

Finding undervalued hitters is key to separating your lineup from the pack. Don't just look at batting averages; consider other factors.

Targeting Undervalued Bats

Many factors can lead to a hitter being undervalued in DFS. Recent performance fluctuations, a lower salary despite potential, or simply being overlooked by other players can all create opportunities.

• Examples: A hitter with a high on-base percentage (OBP) but a low batting average can still produce points through walks and runs scored.
• Reasons for Potential: Look for hitters with a strong history against the opposing pitcher, or those benefiting from a favorable park factor (some ballparks are more hitter-friendly).
• Beyond Batting Average: Consider other stats like slugging percentage (SLG), on-base plus slugging (OPS), and isolated power (ISO) for a more complete picture of a hitter’s potential.

Considering Stacking Strategies

Stacking hitters from the same team, particularly against a pitcher with a poor history against that team's lineup, can significantly boost your score. This strategy maximizes your points if your stacked team performs well.

• Examples: If a team is facing a pitcher who struggles against left-handed hitters, stacking several left-handed hitters from that team increases your chances of a big score.
• Reasoning Behind Choices: Consider the team's projected runs scored against the opposing pitcher. Websites and apps often provide these projections based on historical data and advanced statistics. High projected runs increase the likelihood of your stack contributing significantly to your overall score.

Players to Avoid in Your May 8th MLB DFS Lineup

Knowing which players to avoid is just as important as knowing which players to pick. Identifying potential pitfalls in your MLB DFS lineup helps maximize your chances of success.

Pitchers to Steer Clear Of

Some pitchers should be avoided due to poor matchups, injuries, or inconsistent recent performances. Don't fall for the trap of picking a big name if their underlying statistics and matchup suggest a poor performance.

• Examples: Pitchers with a high ERA, high WHIP, and facing a strong offensive lineup are risky choices. Pitchers with recent injury concerns should also be approached with caution.
• Reasons for Avoiding: Look for pitchers facing teams with high projected run totals. Their performance history against that specific team or a similar team is also critical.

Hitters to Leave on the Bench

Similarly, some hitters should be avoided due to tough matchups or poor recent performance. Don't get stuck with a hitter who has a very low probability of contributing significantly to your MLB DFS lineup score.

• Examples: Hitters facing elite pitchers known for dominating hitters are usually best avoided. Hitters with consistently poor performance, especially against the specific pitching style they face, are also risky.
• Reasons for Avoiding: Consider a hitter's recent performance against similar pitching styles. Low projected ownership isn't always a bad thing but indicates that many other DFS players also see a low probability of success.

Conclusion

By carefully considering these pitcher and hitter selections, focusing on both value and upside, and strategically avoiding potential pitfalls, you’ll significantly improve your chances of dominating your MLB DFS contests on May 8th. Remember to use this information to inform your lineup decisions, but also factor in your own research and adjust according to late-breaking news. Don't miss out – use these tips to dominate your MLB DFS lineup and secure a winning outcome! Start building your winning May 8th MLB DFS lineup now!